News 15:00

BULLETIN 24 February 3 pm

Good afternoon. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# Load-shedding and the proposed VAT hike may cost the ANC in the 2026 local government elections
# The Gautrain completes its repairs on the tunnel section between Rosebank and Park station
# And rugby: The North West University renames a rugby residence after Siya Kolisi

# Political experts have warned that the ANC could face voter backlash in next year’s local governement elections due to the proposed two-percent VAT hike and the return of load-shedding. Speaking to Citizen, political analyst Pule Monama calls the proposed VAT increase a self-inflicted act, while Lesiba Teffo says it will influence voters’ decisions in 2026. Analysts suggest a one-percent increase with expanded zero-rated goods. They say the ANC faces growing discontent, with local communities expressing frustration over governance and economic hardships.

Meanwhile, the Gauteng Health Department says backup measures are in place to keep hospitals and clinics running during load-shedding. This comes after Eskom implemented stage six load-shedding over the weekend, but blackouts have since eased to stage four. The department’s Motalatale Modiba says 18 of the province’s 37 hospitals have generators, while the rest are exempt from power cuts:

 # The Gautrain says the repairs to the tunnel section between Rosebank and Park station have been safely completed over this weekend. Illegal drilling activity on a private property located above the tunnel caused damage to the tunnel resulting in water and soil seeping in, leading to the suspension of the train service. Gautrain spokesperson Kesagee Nayager says the train service has been in full operation since this morning:

# The South African Poultry Association has warned that South Africa is at risk from the spread of bird flu, which has already devastated poultry in Europe, the US, and Argentina. The association has called for urgent vaccination to prevent further losses following the 2023 impact on poultry industry. The association has called on the Agriculture Department to lessen its stringent measures as farmers struggle to get approval for vaccination. Industry leaders warn that without action, food security and prices could face severe consequences.

# Rugby: Springbok captain Siya Kolisi is attending the unveiling of the new name of North-West University’s Dennedorp residence to Siya Kolisi Residence today. In addition, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus will inaugurate a new multi-sport residence, Invictus Residence, on the campus. House parent of Siya Kolisi Residence, Funani Mabala, told SABC News this aims to inspire students, celebrating perseverance and excellence in sport and leadership:

# And the financial indicators: The dollar trades at 18-rand-36-cents and the euro at 19-rand-23-cents. One British pound costs 23-rand-21-cents and Bitcoin trades at 95-thousand-468-dollars. Gold sells at two-thousand-939-dollars-14-cents a fine ounce and Brent crude oil is quoted at 74-dollars-13-cents a barrel.

Stay tuned for more news………….